The Great Battle (2018 Film)

The Great Battle (Korean: 안시성; RR: Ansisung) is a 2018 South Korean historical action film directed by Kim Kwang-Sik. The film dramatizes the Siege of Ansi Fortress, a pivotal conflict in the 7th-century war between the Goguryeo kingdom and the Tang Dynasty of China.

Plot

Set in 645 AD, the narrative follows the invasion of Goguryeo by the Tang army, led by Emperor Li Shimin. After suffering repeated defeats, the Goguryeo military commander Yeon Gaesomun orders a retreat to the capital, Pyongyang. He views Yang Man-Chun, the lord of Ansi Fortress, as a traitor for refusing to join the main army. Sa-Mool, a young soldier, is dispatched to the fortress with orders to assassinate Yang. Upon his arrival, Sa-Mool observes the strong bond between Yang and his people, which causes him to reconsider his mission as the Tang forces approach the fortress.

Production

Principal photography for the film commenced on August 23, 2017, and concluded on January 24, 2018. The film was distributed by Next Entertainment World. Several high-profile actors were considered for roles during development, including Park Bo-Gum and Lee Byung-Hun, both of whom declined offers to appear in the production.

Reception and Awards

The film was recognized for its technical production, particularly in costume design. At the 56th Daejong Film Awards in 2020, Lee Jin-Hee received the award for Best Costume Design. Additionally, Nam Joo-Hyuk was honored with the Best New Actor award at the 39th Blue Dragon Film Awards in 2018.